Managing Mental Health as a Small Business Owner

Managing Mental Health as a Small Business Owner

Mental health carries a stigma, and many people deal with their issues on their own. As a small business owner, it can be important to help employees deal with their mental health issues, but it can be tough to know how. It may be even more important to be sure you are dealing with your own mental health.

If you choose to ignore the mental health of yourself and your employees, your business will ultimately suffer. Many entrepreneurs have discovered that anxiety, depression and other issues can all cause them to step away from their business with sometimes devastating effects.

One of the biggest problems facing small businesses as it pertains to mental health is stress. A heavy workload can be unavoidable, but it can be manageable. When you and an employee or two are shouldering all of the work, you will eventually burn out. Experts suggest following these steps to make it a bit easier on yourselves.

1 . Classify the Load

Your work will be divided into two main categories: physical and psychological. Make a list of your duties and divide them into these categories. It is suggested that you put the psychological work first.

2. Stop Comparing Yourself

Stop comparing yourself to others. When you start to think that you are the only person falling behind or feeling the pressure, you will become overly stressed and anxious. Look for ways that you and your employees can support one another.

3. Respect Time

Don’t procrastinate. Get your tasks done, and then reflect on their effectiveness. If there are things you are doing that aren’t moving your business forward, they may not be a priority. Look at the big picture and not the small one.